London is the most exciting city in the world (biased, we know) but we really do believe this to be true. As we started to compile our findings, we realised just how much there is to discover; in fact, the possibilities are endless.
Every tour on this list will elevate your experience of this great city and illuminate a new facet to London that you never knew before. You could find yourself high up in the Tower of London on your own private tour, or tasting the culinary delights around Piccadilly and Soho, or even perusing the splendid gardens at Kew – there really is something for everyone. In addition to the tours centred around the city, we know that going further afield is often on the itinerary and have added in a delightful tour to the Cotswolds, as well as a jam-packed day for the kids at the Harry Potter Studios tour.
So, if you’re currently planning a vacation, or simply looking to know your city better, we present to you the definitive Top 20 Tours in London.
London In A Day Tour with Westminster Abbey Skip-the-Line Tickets
Exploring London in a day is no easy feat, yet perfectly do-able with this comprehensive tour which takes in some of the capital’s most popular attractions. From Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, Tower of London to Westminster Abbey, each attraction will be thoughtfully led by your expert guide, armed with fascinating facts and histories of these unique London landmarks. You’ll also get to sample some traditional British ‘grub’ over a delightful lunch at one of the city’s renowned pubs. By the end of the tour, you will have acquired a deeper knowledge of one of the world’s greatest cities.
Did you know?
You can arrange a car service for this tour, helping you see the city in style.
City Sightseeing London Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
One of the most exciting ways to get around London is via one of the recognisable Hop-On, Hop-Off buses that you will see all around the city. The points of interest along the route, include Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, to name a few. Best of all, you can take advantage of the open-top deck giving you a 360-degree panorama of some of London’s most glorious and picturesque landmarks. A bus tour is also a great way to understand the layout of the city, and at a time and pace that suits you.
Top Tip
Taking the Hop-On Hop-Off bus saves on taking expensive taxi fares. Plus, what could be more iconic than exploring London by bus!
Introduction to London Tour: Highlights from Big Ben to St. Paul’s Cathedral
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or simply want to further your knowledge of the city, this highly engaging, half-day tour is the definitive introduction to London. The tour will take in some of London’s most significant landmarks including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace. As everything is bespoke to you, your expert guide will discuss your particular interests at the start of the tour, so you get the most out of your experience. As far as introductions go, we can’t think of a better tour.
Did you know?
The Houses of Parliament covers an enormous 8 acres with a total of 1,100 rooms inside.
Half-Day Royal London Tour with Changing of the Guard and a view of Buckingham Palace
Observing the Changing of the Guard is one of the most iconic sights you will see while in London. During this tour, your professional guide will discuss the origins of this scared tradition and how it has spanned an incredible 250 years. You will also visit nearby St. James’ Park (a personal favourite at ours at Plate & Place) as well as Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. In our experience, many people visit the Changing of the Guard without fully understanding the history, which is why this is a favoured London tour is a fascinating insight into royal duty and tradition.
Did you know?
The Changing of the Guard lasts 45 minutes so make sure you arrive in plenty of time to get the best view possible.
Central London Highlights Tour with Riverboat Ride
Sailing down the River Thames aboard one of the famous Clipper Riverboats is not only one of the most enjoyable ways of getting around the city but the perfect way to gain a greater understanding of London’s unique history. From the ancient White Tower of 1066 to the marvel that is St. Paul’s Cathedral, each step of this tour will reveal another facet to the story. This is a tour of two parts, as you will first begin on foot before embarking on the riverboat where you will pass by the Tower of London, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Palace of Westminster, to name a few. We hope you have your ‘sea legs’ ready!
Did you know?
The River Thames starts all the way in Gloucestershire and runs through 9 counties in total.
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio Tour
Fans of the boy wizard are sure to delight in this iconic, must-see studio tour. Did you know this tour began back in 2012 and is now one of the UK’s most popular attractions? Rightly so, as the experience is a one-of a-kind, behind the scenes exploration of the world of Harry Potter. During your time you will discover the magnificent Great Hall, which, for the first time since filming, will have 400 floating candles adorn the enchanted ceiling. You’ll also get to stop by Hagrid’s hut, Diagon Alley, and even ride on the Hogwart’s Express. You will also get to see some of the famous props used throughout filming, from the quickest broomstick in the land: the Nimbus 2000, and even get to see Hagrid’s flying motorcycle.
Did you know?
This tour receives around 6,000 visitors daily – that’s a lot of Harry Potter fans!
London Food Tour: Essentials of British Food Culture
London’s eclectic food history is brought to life in this unique gastronomic tour. You’ll discover some of the city’s most iconic culinary delicacies, led by your expert food guide. The tour begins with a visit to the legendary Fortnum & Mason store where you will indulge in some classic British foods, including the much-loved, savoury Scotch Egg. The hallowed halls of Fortnum’s are world-renowned, and even Her Majesty The Queen was known to enjoy a morning cup of Fortnum’s Earl Grey tea. You will also get the opportunity to visit a delightful British cheesemonger, a sumptuous chocolatier, as well as a stopover in Soho to visit one of the best delis in the city. Our advice: come hungry!
Did you know?
Since 2008, the Fortnum’s rooftop has been home to thousands of bees. You can even purchase their delicious honey in-store.
Kew Royal Botanical Gardens Tour
The beautiful botanic gardens of Kew makes for a delightful day out and not just for the green-fingered! The tour takes you inside the history of this magnificent garden with a history spanning an incredible five centuries. Over the course of the day, led by a distinguished Plant Historian, you will visit Kew Palace, as well as the iconic Palm House which is home to some of the world’s most exotic plants. History and botany intertwine to make for a fascinating glimpse into the economic and social history of the past, and how it has shaped our relationship with our environment today.
Did you know?
Kew houses an incredible 50,000 plants.
Half-Day Windsor Castle Day Trip from London
Her Majesty The Queen was said to have favoured Windsor Castle as her preferred residence, and we can certainly see why. The castle has been home to English monarchs for well over 1,000 years. The Queen even chose to spend many of her private weekends at her beloved Windsor home. This private excursion offers a real taste of life at Windsor with a castle tour that includes the State apartment, the Dolls House, as well as St. George’s Chapel. On a clear day, there is even a chance to wander the exterior of the castle and the famous tree-lined walk where you will have seen many royal ceremonies and processions take place over the years.
Did you know?
Windsor Castle became the Queen’s main residence during the final two years of her life.
Full-Day London Art Tour: The British Museum and National Gallery
London’s art scene is one of the most diverse in the world with collections spanning from the ancient Egyptians to the Northern Renaissance. During this full-day art tour you will get to experience the artistic wonders of the British Museum and the National Gallery. The day will be led by your expert art guide who will take you through the fascinating stories behind the most treasured works, from Da Vinci’s paintings through to the Post-Impressionists. It’s sure to be an inspiring and thought-provoking day and a must for any art connoisseur.
Did you know?
The British Museum first opened in 1759 which makes it the oldest museum in the world.
Original Harry Potter Locations Tour
The much-loved filming locations of Harry Potter can be seen up close over the course of this tour. London’s famous backdrop – you could say – is one of the stars of the Harry Potter films. Your friendly guide will take you through the streets of Soho, Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, testing your movie knowledge as you go – perfect for the real Potter fans out there. You will get to see some of the famous sights that feature in the film, from St, Paul’s Cathedral to London Bridge. This is a must-do for all fans of Harry Potter and movie-lovers alike.
We recommend
Leadenhall Market (which features in the movie) is a great place for lunch or dinner with several excellent restaurants and bars.
Westminster Abbey Tour with Skip-The-Line Tickets
Westminster Abbey is probably best known for playing host to some of the grandest royal celebrations in recent times, yet this is only the tip of what is a multi-layered history of one of London’s grandest landmarks. The tour will be led by your expert guide who is on-hand to divulge the secrets of the Abbey’s 1,000-year history. From its foundation during the 11th century right thought to the coronation of the newly crowned King. The architecture alone is truly awe-inspiring with the Abbey holding the record for the highest ceiling in the UK. It’s simply not to be missed.
Did you know?
There are approximately 30,000 graves within Westminster Abbey including Henry VII and Elizabeth I.
Exclusive Early Morning Tower of London Tour
This is one of the most unique tours we have come across and unparalleled for its exclusivity. For those looking to skip the crowds, this early morning tour – a full 90 minutes before the Tower is open to the public – will give you access to Tower like never before. Led by an expert historian, you will be met by one of the Yeoman Warders before embarking on a private tour of the Crown Jewels. This is an exceptional experience as you will be getting to see the world’s most priceless jewels in complete peace. Throughout the tour you will discover the history of the Tower and how it has evolved over 500 hundred years. This is not just any tour, but one of the most specialised, bespoke experiences you could find anywhere in the world.
Did you know?
The moat around the Tower of London was once used as an allotment. The fresh produce grown here was used to feed the residents during World War II.
Buckingham Palace and Royal Parks Tour
A wander around the splendour of London’s Royal Parks is the perfect way to gain a greater understanding of British Royal History. Expertly led by your professional guide who will take you on a journey as to how the parks have shaped royal history over the years. Did you know that the royal parks were once exclusively for the use of the royal family? This tour will take your through the green landscape of St. James Park, Green Park, and will ultimately see you arrive at the magnificent Buckingham Palace. For fans of the Royal Family, or simply to learn more about royal history, we can’t think of a better tour.
Did you know?
Green Park is home to the highly rare Black Poplar tree. Perhaps you will spot them on your next visit.
Jack the Ripper Tour with ‘Ripper-Vision’ in London
During the year 1888, Jack the Ripper, became London’s most feared and gruesome killer. The dimly lit streets of Whitechapel were a dangerous place to live and to be avoided for fear of meeting a particularly grisly end. This truly harrowing tale is now brought vividly to life via state-of-the-art hand-held projectors displaying film clips and moving images, helping to bring you closer to the terrifying story than ever before. This must be one of the creepiest tours in London, and not to be missed for its scary factor!
Did you know?
Jack the Ripper is believed to be buried in historic, Nunhead Cemetery. It’s one of London’s most beautiful cemeteries in south east London and well-worth a visit.
Downton Abbey Village, Blenheim Palace and Cotswolds Day Trip from London
The splendour of Downton Abbey life can be experienced up close in this unforgettable day trip. The tour will begin with a visit to the magnificent Blenheim Palace, famously known as the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. You will also take in the green splendour of the Cotswolds with visits to either Bibury or Bourton-on-the-Water. This region is one of the prettiest in England and as you walk around you do feel as though you’re on the set of a movie. And finally, a visit to Bampton for the full ‘Downton’ experience where you will see many of the locations used during filming. To describe this day in a word: enchanting!
Did you know?
Bampton is not only famous for being in ‘Downton’ but also famous for its Morris Dancing traditions which are still very much alive today.
Historical Pub Walking Tour of London
London’s pub scene is the best in the world (in our opinion) and we can’t think of a better way of spending a relaxed afternoon than with a refreshing pint…or two. This thoroughly enjoyable walking tour will take you through the history of London’s most famous taverns, where you will get to sample some of the very best ales in town. You will visit at least 4 historical pubs including one once frequented by Charles Dickens and Arthur Conan Doyle. Best of all, this tour has a maximum of 14 people, so it feels far more personal, with a chance to get to know your fellow revellers. Our tip: wear comfy shoes!
Did you know?
London’s oldest pub, The Seven Stars in Aldwych, was built in 1602 and is located just behind the Royal Courts of Justice.
London in a Day Tour for Kids with the Tower of London and St. Paul’s Cathedral
There’s no better way to explore a city than through the eyes of your little ones. It’s a rare opportunity to experience the sights and sounds in a whole new light. During this 6-hour adventure, led by your specially trained family guide, you will visit some of London’s most famous attractions, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Tate Modern, Millennium Bridge and Borough Market. This is a particularly unique tour as the emphasis is on hands-on activities, so the younger members of the tour are continually involved and entertained throughout the day. And although, the tour is designed for kids, we think the adults will have just as much fun.
We recommend
Taking a rucksack so you can pick up some delicious food delicacies when you stop by Borough Market – there’s always so much to choose from.
Full-Day Stonehenge and Bath Day Trip from London with Skip-the-Line Tickets
The south-west of England is known for its astounding natural beauty and historical significance, and famously home to the UNESCO heritage site of Stonehenge. This unique and mysterious landscape is steeped in folklore, and one of the best-known ancient wonders of the world. During the tour you will get to see this marvel up close, led by your expert tour guide who will be on-hand to take you through the history and origins of the stones. You will also be visiting the nearby historic town of Bath, with entry to the beautiful Roman Baths which is a must-visit while in this beautiful region.
Did you know?
Stonehenge dates back over 5,000 years and took a staggering 1,000 years to build.
Full-Day Cotswolds Day Trip from London
The rolling green hills, picturesque stone villages, makes the Cotswolds one of the country’s most idyllic regions to visit. In fact, it’s so impossibly pretty the pictures don’t do it justice. This full-day tour from London is the definitive tour of the Cotswolds and makes for an unforgettable day. In the comfort of your private car, you will visit Stow-on-the-Wold, Burford, and Swingbrook – villages seemingly untouched by the passage of time. You’ll also stop for a classic pub lunch, and should the weather permit, a delightful picnic. We think this is particularly special tour as getting to see the Cotswolds, while the driving is all taken care of, makes for one of the best days out we could find.
Did you know?
Stow-On-The-World is home to England’s oldest pub – The Porch House – which dates back to 947 AD.
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